Buying Guide - Baby Car Seats

Buying Tips

Watch out for the label: safety standardsCar seats must adhere to the R44-03 or R44-04 standards. The label must have the letter E in a circle which guaranties that the car seat bought by you adheres to the European standards. The label must also mention the weight range for which the car seat is approved. For example, 19 lb to 39 lb (9kg to 18kg) for a group I seat.

Baby in place: the harnessGroup 0 to II car seats are fitted with a harness. There are 3-point or 5-point harnesses. 5-point harnesses are more reliable and effective than the other models. T-shaped, they resemble the harnesses used by road racers. The strap that passes between your child’s legs prevents him from slipping from the seat.

Isofix or not? The fitting systemMost of the car seats can be fixed with seat belts. Some of them are fitted with the Isofix system which allows you to fix the seat directly on the body of your car and not on the seat belt anchorages. It offers the advantage of being easy to install and not having to drive with a badly fitted car seat.

The semi-universal Isofix seats are fitted on the backrest with two special clips and a knee brace which prevents the seat from toppling over.

The universal Isofix car seats have a Top Tether strap fastened to the boot which replaces the knee brace. From 2011 on, all new cars are fitted with the Isofix system.

Keep in mind: lateral protectionSeats fitted with head supports are more secure in case of lateral shocks. Hence it is not advisable to remove the headrest from the group II and III car seats.

From babies to big fellows: adaptability Convertible seats are those that can be modified to suit your baby’s growth. Though economically more viable, certain studies indicate that they are less practical, in terms of security as well as usability.

Comfort and hygiene: seat coverFor your child’s safety and hygiene it is recommended that you purchase a model fitted with a removable and washable seat cover.

Group I

Group I seats is for children weighing 19 lb to 39 lb (9 kg to 18 kg) a